Will Your Password be Unbroken?

Passwords are your first line of defense when it comes to protecting your devices, your information, and your identity. Identity theft is on the rise for the past 3 years. No one is safe from identity theft, not even college students. Thieves obtain sensitive information about someone from a variety of sources. The most common cause is a stolen wallet or purse, but stolen passwords is a major concern as well.

How can you protect yourself and your sensitive information?

Strong passwords are your first line of defense. Use long, complex passwords to protect your accounts. Etown requires your network password to be at least 8 characters long containing an upper and lowercase letter, a number, and a special character (# $ ! etc.) This requirement isn’t just because we like resetting passwords when you forget your complicated password; it’s to protect you, your account, and the network. The more complex your password is, the less likely it is that someone can guess your password.

Use different passwords for different accounts. By using the same password for everything, then you are increasing the chances that if someone figures out the password to one thing, they have access to everything else too. Don’t leave yourself open to that kind of vulnerability and use different passwords. Change your passwords regularly too, and while you’re at it backup your data!

Don’t give your password to anybody! Even giving your password to a friend could leave your account or information vulnerable. Especially beware phishing attempts! Phishing attempts are scams that attempt to trick you into releasing your passwords or other sensitive information.

Remember: ITS will never ask for your password.

If something doesn’t look right, then forward the email to mailcop@etown.edu.

For more information on keeping you and your information safe, visit these ITS Knowledgebase Articles. Email Safety, Password Safety, and Safe Web Browsing.